1 Corinthians 4:1-5

This, then, is how you ought to regard us: as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the mysteries God has revealed. Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God. - 1 Corinthians 4:1-5

Dear Jesus,

Our tenancy is to live for the approval of others.  That's why criticism hurts so much.  But it's a deceptive and illusive goal to be dependent on others for one's own value.  I am valuable because you thought me to be worth the sacrifice of yourself.  You bought me and that makes me worth a lot.  Now, you have the soul rights to judge, criticize, guide and direct me.  I know you see the intentions of my heart.  I know you love me even though you see my weaknesses.  And you have judged yourself so I could live under grace and learn to grow into the person you have always wanted.  Help me to live free from concern about what people think so I can freely love them boldly. 

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

When we don't care what people think about us, we are free to care for people more purely.